Who must take the UNCW math placement test?

• All incoming freshmen and some transfer students take the UNCW math placement test. The test is given as part of a new student's Orientation program.
   
• Continuing students who missed their initial test date.
  

Who does not need to take the UNCW math placement test?

• New students who have received credit for a college-level algebra course or AP Calculus (scoring 3 or above on the test).
   
• Continuing students who have previously earned a grade D-, D, or D+ in MAT 111 at UNCW may enroll in MAT 111 without taking the math placement test.
   
• Continuing students who have previously earned a grade of F in MAT 111 at UNCW may enroll in MAT 111 without taking the math placement test.

Will I have to take the highest level math course I place into?

• NO!  Your advisor will consider your placement and your intended major to help you decide which math course you should take.  Although you may place high, the registration system will still allow you to take a lower level math course to fulfill the requirements for your intended major.  It is in your best interest that you do your best on the placement test to broaden your career options. 

What is supplemental credit?

• If you take the Math Placement Test and place into MAT 161* you will be granted supplemental credit upon completion of the course under the following circumstances:

  You must take MAT 161 as your first math course at UNCW and have no AP credit, no transfer credit, and no prior math credit at UNCW.  When you pass the course with a "C" (2.00) or better, you will receive 3 credit hours for MAT 115.  This credit may be used to fulfill basic studies requirements, however, it will not factor when computing your grade point average.

  *If you are interested in placing into MAT 161, it is necessary to have substantial math skills in Algebra and Trigonometry.

How can I review my Algebra and/or Trigonometry before taking the math placement test?

• Print the Algebra and/or Trigonometry review problems: (link available on the left under "Navigation")  Work the solutions and check your answers.  The answers you miss will indicate which math concept you should spend more time studying.
  
  
• Books on reserve in The Math Lab: Algebra Review by Sullivan, et.al.
  Intermediate Algebra by Lial, et.al. (MAT 100 textbook) Other books also available.  All books must be used in the Math Lab when the Resource Assistants are available.
  
  
• Web links for reviewing algebra may be found by clicking here.